Camping options near Tarrytown span from northern New Jersey to the Hudson Valley region. The area's elevation ranges from sea level along the Hudson River to over 1,800 feet at High Point State Park, creating varied camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night, with higher elevations offering cooler conditions even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking mountain trails: At High Point State Park Campground, visitors can access the Appalachian Trail and climb to the High Point Monument at 1,803 feet. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," notes Yolanda T. The park offers both short and long trail options directly accessible from camping areas.
Fishing and boating: Multiple lakes provide freshwater recreation opportunities throughout the region. "The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," explains Ethan K. about Mountain Lakes Park. At Great Divide Campground, campers enjoy "free kayaks" according to Jesse C., making water activities accessible without additional rental costs.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, Stokes State Forest maintains year-round accessibility. Campers appreciate the winter options, with W L. sharing: "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room. The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic."
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Many campsites throughout the region feature elevated platforms for tent camping. At Stokes State Forest, "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," reports E.M.V. These platforms keep tents dry and level regardless of ground conditions.
Military-only facilities: Active and retired military personnel have access to exclusive camping options. "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that it's a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other and the caretakers take such care of the grounds," shares one camper about West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Rustic cabin accommodations: Yurt camping near Tarrytown provides a glamping option, but traditional cabins remain popular. Christopher M. notes that at Camp Glen Gray, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
What you should know
Limited phone service: Connectivity can be challenging at certain campgrounds. One reviewer at West Point FMWR Round Pond warns: "Just a note to other campers with T-Mobile, we did not have any service on the campsite, however just a hop in the car or a quick walk down the mountain for 5G service near the entrance off the main road."
Winter heating needs: For off-season cabin stays, prepare for cold nights. "You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning," advises a winter visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Variable bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At High Point State Park Campground, Dwight D. reports "Clean-ish bathrooms with flush toilets, no sinks, no showers, with that awful outhouse smell. Bringing your own toilet paper is a good idea as the park didn't replace it enough and it ran out."
Tips for camping with families
Kids' programming: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family activities throughout the camping season. "This place is great for kids. It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity," notes Jennifer I. Other reviewers mention themed weekends and daily scheduled activities for various age groups.
Safety features for swimming: When camping with small children, look for facilities with structured swimming areas. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also," recommends Amanda S. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Terrain considerations: The topography at some campgrounds can create challenges for families with young children. At Great Divide Campground, Jojo P. cautions, "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," and another visitor adds "Lots of hills so bikes are hard to use. We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: Plan for potentially long water connections at certain campgrounds. An RVer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation notes, "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our RV connection."
Site leveling challenges: The hilly terrain around Tarrytown creates leveling challenges for RVs. At High Point State Park, an RVer mentioned, "We have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level," requiring blocks and jacks to achieve stability.
Dump station accessibility: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer full hookups. One RVer at Mahlon Dickerson reported, "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," indicating the convenience of the waste disposal facilities despite not having sewer hookups at individual sites.
